ALLEGED LOAN SHARK - Robert Gareth Sparey, 55 from Y Cilgant in Caerphilly appeared at Newport Magistrates Court today in relation to offences of illegal money lending, money laundering, breaches of the Trade Marks Act 1994 and perverting and attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Mr Sparey indicated that he intended to plead guilty to all charges apart from those of perverting and attempting to pervert the course of justice.

The alleged illegal lending offences spread over 20 years and took place in Lansbury Park which is rated as the most deprived community in Wales.

District Judge Martin Brown explained to Mr Sparey that due to the nature of the charges - ‘these matters could only be heard by the Crown Court.'

Mr Sparey was given conditional bail and it was explained that he could not give out any further loans, collect any money and was not allowed to approach, communicate or interfere with any of the prosecution witnesses.

The case will be listed at Newport Crown Court on October 17th2017 for a plea hearing.